The first time I had Glühwein was a good couple of years ago. I was hooked immediately! What’s not to love? Warm, spicy with a hint of citrus – it just shouts ‘winter warmer’! On a chilly evening in Gauteng, I don’t need half an excuse to make a batch. Yes, I know that we don’t get snowy Xmas days here in South Africa, but this reminds me of a white Xmas – one I’ve always dreamed of. *sleigh bells fading in…. and out….*
I’m dreaming of a Glühwein Xmas, with every Glühwein batch I make
May your days be merry and bright, And may all your Glühwein dreams come true!
But, I digress! As usual.
Moving on swiftly!
It is possible to buy pre-mixed Glühwein spices, and there are also ready-to-drink options available, but to be honest, it is a little too sweet for me.
The beauty about making your own Glühwein is that you can experiment with various spices and fruit, with varying degrees of sweetness as well. I prefer the combination of cinnamon and citrus, but you can even add black pepper, and like in the case with Glühwein’s Swedish cousin, Glögg, add raisins and almonds as well.
My recipe is super easy!
I’m using Winefolk’s Tannat (thanks for the prize guys!) as my base wine.
Adding some spices:
And, of course, oranges for that citrus goodness!
- 1 x bottle Winefolk Tannat (or your favourite easy drinking red wine)
Pour this in a medium sized saucepan and add:
- 1/2 tsp allspice
- 3 crushed green cardamon pods
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 3 tbs brown sugar
- 1 orange, sliced
- 150ml freshly squeezed orange juice
Heat gently over medium heat, be careful not to bring it to boil.
And that is it! How easy! This is a very basic recipe, so as mentioned previously you can experiment and add more spices – like cinnamon, nutmeg, anise seeds. Feel free to add some lemon or tangerine slices as well. For an extra kick, how about a tot (or three) of brandy, vodka, rum or whisky. The choice is yours!
Do you have any recipe secrets to share? Suggestions to try! Let me know!
Oh yes, I actually made this for our bi-weekly #SAVineShare Twitter chat! https://twitter.com/SAVineShare Follow us! We’ve got some pretty exciting wine events coming up!
Also – check out Winefolk for some great wine offers – we’ve bought some real gems from them! Like the Petrolhead!